Swelling and water retention – especially in the feet

Standing for extended periods of time will cause fluid to collect in the tissues of your lower legs and swelling will occur. Hot weather can cause water retention since heat makes us less effective at removing fluid.

For women, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or taking birth control can also cause water retention. A lack of protein or Vitamin B1 will lead to water retention as will blood pressure medication, certain steroid medications and anti-inflammatories.

Weak veins in the legs can also cause water retention since they are not able to efficiently pump blood back to the heart.

2. Medical Conditions

Water retention can mean that someone is suffering from kidney, heart, lung and liver disease, cancer or arthritis. Commonly those with diabetes will have water retention in their limbs due to poor circulation. Tumors on the lymphatic system will also lead to water retention and those with thyroid issues can suffer from water retention. Allergies can also be a cause, as bad reactions can lead to swelling in various parts of the body.

Home Remedies for Water Retention

Reduce Salt Intake.

Sodium can cause bloating so try to watch how much of it you are eating in your daily diet. Women about to go through their menstrual cycle should avoid sodium.

Eat Bananas and Yogurt.

Try eating foods like bananas and yogurt. The active probiotic cultures in plain, low-fat yogurts can help with water retention in and around the stomach and can help the digestive process. The high levels of Potassium in bananas help to reduce and alleviate bloat. Raisins are a good alternative if you’re not a fan of bananas.

Apply Cold Compress.

Using ice packs and cold compresses or dipping your feet into an ice bath can help reduce swelling. The cold can help to constrict blood vessels and keep excess water and fluid from pooling. Prolonged exposure to cold is not good so be cautious.

Try Natural Diuretics.

Natural diuretics can work as well as cold compresses since they rid the body of excess water, too. Beverages like cabbage and cranberry juice can pull fluid from the body and help expel it through urine.

Keep Proper Hydration.

It’s important to stay hydrated, especially if you are using natural diuretics to rid yourself of water retention. Diuretics cause you to urinate frequently, and although you will be flushing your body of excess fluid, be careful not to overdo it as you may also lose fluid you do need.

Upping your intake of water is the best way to flush out your system. It may seem weird to take in more water when your problem is excess water, but it will help your system clean out even better than a diuretic.

Take Vitamins. Vitamins A and C are also vital in helping to eliminate water retention. They help strengthen capillaries and blood vessels so that they can better transfer blood and fluid through the lymphatic system.

Increase Mineral Intake.

Deficiencies in Calcium, Potassium and other essential minerals can lead to water retention. Be sure that your daily diet is rich in these essential minerals. Low or non-fat dairy products will help you take in higher amounts of Calcium while bananas, as discussed above, are unmatched for their potassium content. Consider adding mineral supplements to your daily nutrition routine. Stick to prescribe dosages.

Manage Your Stress.

As is the case with a lot of health conditions, stress is a major player in causing water retention. Stress can hinder your body from being able to release toxins and wastes. If situations of high stress seem to be surrounding bouts of water retention try activities to manage your stress and reduce its negative effects.

Perform Regular Activities.

Thirty minutes of physical exercise each day is something you can do to reduce stress and keep water retention in check. It’s healthy to sweat and sweating allows excess fluid to leave the body, detoxifying it. Daily meditation can also help relieve stress. “Sitting and doing nothing” may be just what your body needs!

Dos And Don’ts To Remember:

Don’t smoke or binge on alcohol.

Don’t wear clothes that are too tight as they can affect circulation.

Do eat small, balanced meals throughout the day and elevate your feet when you can.

Don’t cross your legs every time you sit as that can have negative effects on blood flow.